The Detroit Pistons overcame a 3-1 series deficit to defeat the Orlando Magic 116-94 in the deciding game on May 3, advancing to the Eastern Conference semifinals for the first time since 2008 [1]. Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 32 points and 12 assists, while Tobias Harris added 30 points in the series-clinching victory [1]. Cunningham said, "We had a great regular season, we built a lot of momentum going into these play-offs. To lose in the first round would have really stung. To come back from 3-1, odds against us, and to come back and win it at home - it feels good" [1]. The Pistons became the 15th NBA team in history to rally from a 3-1 deficit to win a playoff series [1].
On the same day, the Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Toronto Raptors 114-102 in Game 7 of their first-round series [1, 2]. Jarrett Allen scored 22 points and grabbed 19 rebounds, including a dominant third quarter with 14 points and 10 rebounds [1, 2]. Donovan Mitchell added 22 points and James Harden contributed 18 for the Cavaliers [1, 2]. Allen said, "I just wanted to show my team-mates that we can win this game. Energy and effort, that's what I believe wins games. Every single possession, it means a lot. Every single possession means it could be the end of the season" [1].
Toronto was making its first playoff appearance since 2022. Scottie Barnes scored 24 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, while RJ Barrett added 23 points for the Raptors [1].
Both teams meet in the Eastern Conference semifinals starting today, May 5. The home team has won every game so far in this matchup [2].
